July 2022
Technological innovation has changed the way we look at building safety and security.
Security
Ten years ago, condominium security focused on the need to hire personnel. Today that focus has changed to doing more without the need to employ additional personnel. It is easier to incorporate more security cameras for monitoring more areas of a building and property, and utilizing wireless technology. Remote concierge options provide services without a physical presence. Electronic key fobs and access cards control building access and provide awareness of who is passing through secure doors and spaces.
Condo management software makes it easier for security personnel to know who resides in a building, and who is expecting visitors, thus preventing others from obtaining access. Residents are more secure against building break-ins and theft.
Safety
Water is the new fire! Ten years ago, building safety systems focused on preventing fire. When a fire occurred, systems helped contain it thus protecting residents from injury and death. This is so successful that most never think about fire safety unless an alarm rings.
Costs of water damage are on the rise and exceed those of fire. Communities have largely ignored increases in water-related damages and claims. Many have remained complacent until problems are upon them at which time it is too late.
Combatting this growing threat requires a change in focus. Water is more likely to enter an aging infrastructure from the outside during wet or severe weather. From inside it may leak from damaged or poorly maintained pipes, faucets or appliances. Like fire, water spreads quickly leaving costly damage in its wake. New technologies for preventing pipes from leaking are a way to reduce the number of internal water leaks. Water detection systems offer a way to more quickly inform of when water is where it should not be, so that repairs can be undertaken before more significant damage occurs. Savings arise when there is reduced need for repair and restoration services, and lower insurance costs arising from less damage.
Companies such as Aware by BuildingLink, LEaC Shield and WATERSHIELD have become increasingly important to addressing the threat of water and reducing internal building damage. Communities choosing not to avail themselves of known solutions will eventually be required to contact services such as RespondPlus Disaster Restoration, to halt and contain damage, to prevent an active water problem from spreading through your building.
